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Britain cannot be allowed bully Irish Fishermen – Ferris

Kerry Sinn Féin TD and party spokesperson on Fisheries
Martin Ferris has called on Minister Michael Creed to appear before the Joint
Committee on Agriculture, Food, and the Marine this week to discuss the
implications of Britain signalling its withdrawal from the London Fisheries
Convention.

Deputy Ferris said:

“It is imperative that Irish fishermen are not made the meat
in the sandwich between the EU and Britain. It is clear that the British side
are willing to gamble on a hard Brexit and to hell with the repercussions.

“Our government needs to make absolutely clear to the EU
negotiating team how important our fisheries are. It is certain that the French
and others will do everything to protect their industry and we can be no
different.

“We cannot allow ourselves to be bullied on this matter. The
reality is, and the British are well aware, that their fish stocks are shared
with others, including Ireland. Fish do not recognise nor respect national
boundaries and it is in all our interests to get the best deal possible.

“Minister Creed needs to come before the Joint
Committee on Agriculture, Food, and the Marine this week and outline the
measures he and his government are taking to protect the livelihoods of Irish
fishermen.”